July 02, 2006

What should we bring with us to the hospital?

Megan, we have two questions that we hope you can help with One, what will we need to bring with us to the hospital? I am sure that we will need some basic baby items but will we need anything else? Also, what type of documents will we get for the baby such as birth certificate etc. because I imagine we will need something for our insurance, to travel with the baby etc. We know we are thinking ahead, but we just like to be prepared in case something comes up quickly.

Hey, there is nothing wrong with being prepared for what you can since there are so many things that you cannot prepare for and have to be flexible about! Obviously, your Specialist can review these items with you again when you are matched and the delivery is approaching because there may be some things that are specific to your situation that you will need to be ready for. However, in general, a family needs to bring minimal items with them to the hospital. Most hospitals will discharge the baby with enough formula, diapers and supplies for at least one day so you can go purchase more…it is best to wait to get these items anyhow because you can verify with medical staff, what they recommend for the baby. Items that I suggest you bring are a car seat (the hospital won’t discharge the baby without one), 2-3 onesies/outfits, and 2-3 blankets/cloths. Of course, you are welcome to bring as much as you want, but it is ok to pack minimally and then purchase more necessary items later after you have the baby. Another item you will need to bring with you to the hospital is your Identification/Drivers license. Many hospitals will ask for proof of identification for security purposes to allow you access to the baby. Finally, you should be prepared to bring flowers or a small gift for the birth parents if it is determined to be appropriate by your Adoption Specialist. These details can be discussed during your match as your specialists will be able to best guide you on what would be most appropriate for the birth mother.

As far as documentation you can expect to receive for the baby, it varies for every adoption, however, you should expect to receive some form of placement paperwork from the attorney or adoption agency. You will most likely not receive a birth certificate as the birth mother will complete the birth certificate in the hospital prior to discharge and the hospital will send it off to the state. In every adoption, the birth mother completes the birth certificate and then an amended birth certificate is granted at time of finalization that lists you as the child’s parents. You may receive some discharge instructions from the hospital. Also, you may be able to receive a crib card and footprints/first fotos depending on everything the hospital provides. Be sure that you advocate for the birth mother to receive copies of all these things as well if she wants a copy as well. Most hospitals will prepare two sets of this stuff if you ask about it.

I know there are more specifics that I can go over with you, but this is the gist of what you should need to know for now! We’ll make sure to answer your questions as you go along and get you anything you need when the time arises. Have a great weekend!

Megan